Chanthaburi Fruit Markets

During the fruit season, you'll find fruit markets along the roadsides selling the province's famous produce like rambutans, durians, and mangosteens. Look for markets around farm areas or on the way to Laem Sing and Khao Khitchakut.

Chanthaburi Province in Thailand is famous for its abundant fruit production, particularly tropical fruits like durians, rambutans, mangosteens, and longans. Due to its reputation as a major fruit-growing region, Chanthaburi hosts several fruit markets that are well-known both domestically and internationally.

The markets in Chanthaburi are not only places where local farmers sell their produce but also act as trading hubs where buyers from different parts of Thailand and even from abroad come to purchase fruits in bulk. This makes the fruit markets of Chanthaburi significant for the economy of the region.

There are several kinds of fruit markets in Chanthaburi:

1. **Seasonal fruit markets**: These markets come alive during the fruit season, which typically peaks around April to June. The markets might also open during other fruit seasons depending on what is currently being harvested.

2. **Permanent fruit markets**: These are open throughout the year and sellers offer a wide range of fruits depending on what's in season.

Some notable markets and related events in Chanthaburi include:

- **Chanthaburi Fruit Festival**: An annual event usually held in May or June where the city celebrates its diverse variety of fruits. This festival features a parade, agricultural exhibits, competitions (like fruit-eating contests), and plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh fruits and fruit products.

- **The Chanthaboon Waterfront Community**: Although not a fruit market, the Chanthaboon Waterfront is a historical community in Chanthaburi with traditional shops and weekend markets, where you might also find a variety of local fruits alongside other goods.

When visiting the fruit markets in Chanthaburi, it is common to see vendors offering samples of their fruits. Also, prices tend to be much lower than in the city supermarkets, and bargaining is a typical practice. The markets also sometimes offer processed fruit products such as dried fruits, jams, and jellies. It's a vibrant aspect of local culture and provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the local way of life.